BREWER'S YEAST - PROPERTIES AND BENEFITS

Professionals in the brewing world often refer to yeast as the “magic” ingredient in the recipe. Water, cereal, hops and other additives are likewise indispensable for brewing beer, but unlike these ingredients, yeast is microscopic, and remained in hiding for many centuries.

We would have to wait until the middle of the 19th century until it was discovered, thanks to the invention of the microscope and research by Louis Pasteur, who identified the mysterious micro-organism responsible for converting cereal sugar into alcohol and carbonic gas.

Since then a lot of further research and experiments have been done, leading to plenty of literature on the properties of this fungus, both for making beer and other fermented products. Likewise, a large number of different yeast strains have been isolated, each with their own specific properties, which helps brewers to choose the one that is most suitable for each brewing style. Choosing between ale and lager types will condition the fermenting temperature, which varies from 6ºC to 24ºC, and will produce more complex or simpler beers with respect to smell and taste.

Being useful in beer making more than justifies the existence of yeast, but this curious fungus does not only provide its services to brewing beer, but it is now also used for personal care. Many people will have used brewer's yeast in their daily lives to treat or prevent minor problems or ailments.

Different studies have brought to light the many uses of taking brewer's years thanks to its many natural properties, which include a source of protein of high biological value that helps to regenerate skin, nails and hair. Likewise, it is recommended for regulating sleep and thereby improving our recovery from daily life.

Yeast also provides B vitamins, minerals and trace elements with antioxidant properties, it is rich in fibre and therefore enhances intestinal flora. In general, its use does not entail any risks, nor is it advised against, which means we can buy it at supermarkets or health food shops. Even so, it is always a good idea to check with a qualified professional in each individual case.

We can find brewer's yeast in different forms, meaning it can be used in different ways: liquid, powder or pills, but the most pleasant way to take brewer’s yeast, albeit in lower concentrations, is the yeast contained in beer. Consequently, we need to find beer that still contains yeast when it is sold, since most beer is filtered to achieve a clearer, shinier appearance, which eliminates this ingredient from the end product. We should also find beer that has not been pasteurised, since this process, although it is very useful to ensure the stability of beer, also eliminates the properties of this fungus. If you do choose this way to take brewer's yeast, you must remember that you are also drinking alcohol, so make sure you drink in moderation and responsibly.

Cheers!